updated 02:46 pm EDT, Tue June 24, 2014

In a repeat of similar moves last year, mobile phone users in Europe will soon be able to use their smartphones in other countries on the continent at a lower cost. From July 1, roaming caps introduced by the European Commission will see the cost of calls and text messages reduced, with the high note being the reduction of maximum data charges from last year's cap of 45 euro cents ($0.61) per megabyte to 20 cents ($0.27) before tax, a decrease of 55.5 percent.

The cost of making and receiving a call fell last year to 24 cents ($0.32) and 7 cents ($0.10) per minute respectively, with this year's cap bringing the charges down to 19 cents ($0.26) and 5 cents ($0.07). The cost of sending a text message has reduced by a quarter from 8 euro cents ($0.11) to 6 cents ($0.08). Customers will also be able to accept roaming deals from carriers before traveling, something already being offered by Three and others, and in some countries, be able to choose different local providers for data and voice services.

Earlier this year, the European Parliament voted for reforms to European carrier pricing, potentially ending the concept of roaming charges on the continent by Christmas 2015, as well as agreeing on net neutrality reforms.